"Branch Family," the shock was evident on the faces of the three children. Never in their wildest dreams would they have expected Caleb to belong to a branch family.
"I recall your opponent mentioning something about a branch family yesterday, but I wasn't sure if I heard it correctly until you confirmed it now. If you're facing troubles in your clan, you can always come to my clan. I'm sure they would gladly promote you to a direct disciple of the main family and provide you with the best resources," Alex offered, earning a disapproving shake of the head from Osmos.
"Why go to Alex's clan when you can come to the Ironhide clan instead? My father would treat you as his own son and grant you the title of young master directly," Osmos chimed in.
Noticing the escalating competitiveness between Alex and Osmos over Caleb, Lumia intervened. "Let's head to our houses, Alex. It's your first time in the ranked area, and I'll show you around," she suggested, pulling Alex away from the group.
Caleb could only smile as he bid farewell to Osmos before entering House 3 for the final day. Instead of cultivating in the crystal ball, he simply lay on his bed and quickly fell into a deep sleep.
At 8 am, Caleb stood in front of the Third Captain.
"Congratulations on your victory in yesterday's battle. You've showcased the results of our efforts in teaching you kids. The spear arts you've developed have opened new possibilities for us in the camp. We've attempted to combine stances and spears before, but nobody has achieved the level of success you displayed. We'll be using some of your techniques as a reference in developing our own spear art. I hope you'll assist us with this," the Third Captain commended.
"Yes, sir. It would be my pleasure to assist in developing this spear art with the other instructors," Caleb replied respectfully.
"From now on, you'll be Rank 0, and this will be your permanent rank for the remainder of your time in the training camp," the Third Captain announced. "You'll receive additional cultivation resources for both body and faith, and the skills pavilion will be open to you. You've earned this opportunity yourself, Caleb. Don't waste it."
"Yes, sir," Caleb acknowledged.
On that same day, the rankings were updated. Caleb's name now displayed a golden Rank 0 next to it, causing everyone to shift up one rank. Tobias, originally Rank 11, now held the 10th position, and Asher moved to 14th.
A guard led Caleb to his new residence, an empty cave located at the far end of the ranked area. The cave was modest, devoid of lavish furnishings or decorations, with only a small wooden door guarding its contents. As Caleb opened the creaking door, a dense wave of faith energy rushed out, gently moving his hair like the morning breeze. He finally understood the distinction between the ranked houses and this secluded place. With his cheat, Caleb recognized that this was the best location for seclusion as he aimed to break into the disciple rank. But first, he needed to visit the skill pavilion to search for the lightning skill his master had mentioned.
Filled with anticipation, Caleb hurried to the camp's skills pavilion and requested the Thunder Strike skill. The process went smoothly, as the guards were already informed about Caleb's new rank. With the skill book in his possession, he found a nearby table to study its contents. Unlike the books available in the ranked houses, rare skills like Thunder Strike were not easily accessible and were considered valuable treasures. This encouraged geniuses with unique blessings to seek other powers to acquire skills.
After returning to his humble abode, Caleb wasted no time in making use of the precious resources at his disposal. He encountered the guard who was tasked with delivering his two bowls of beast meat elixir and swiftly consumed one of the bowls, relishing its invigorating essence. Filled with determination, Caleb approached the guard with a special request.
"From now on, could you please deliver the second bowl of elixir to a child named Asher?" Caleb inquired earnestly, his voice carrying a sense of purpose. Taken aback by this unexpected request, the guard nodded in agreement, unaware of the profound impact it would have on Asher's life. Little did Asher know that a wave of guilt and remorse would soon wash over him for how he had treated Caleb in the past, forever changing his perspective.
With the surge of faith energy coursing through his veins, invigorated by the nourishing elixir, Caleb felt his anticipation grow. The concentrated energy within the cave enveloped him, infusing his being with renewed vitality. Eager to explore the mysteries that awaited him within the crystal space, Caleb made his way to the simple bed, his heart brimming with excitement.
As he settled onto the bed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation, Caleb couldn't help but wonder what surprises awaited him within the crystal ball.
Upon entering the space, Caleb noticed that four clones remained, causing a twinge of disappointment. He had expected to see a fifth clone practising the Thunder Strike skill he had just learned but quickly pushed aside his disappointment.
In the crystal space, he witnessed Spearmaster employing the Thunder Strike skill in the Divine Spear Art. Similar to Tobias' Water Enhancement skill, which covered the weapon with water, lightning could be seen enveloping the spear as it struck out with devastating power.
Heartmaster's actions remained unchanged as he continued to weave hand signs and chant the Songs of Solomon Scripture. Similarly, Faithmaster diligently refined faith energy.
However, Bodymanster's actions had undergone a noticeable transformation. Instead of combining stretches with the 6 Stances, he was now actively casting the Thunder Strike skill on his body without pause. Each strike was infused with the pulse of lightning, refining his body on a cellular level, a stage of mortal rank hinted at by the previous exercise. Caleb now knew that there was one more stage unknown to all in mortal rank, and he possessed the knowledge to achieve it before breaking into the Human rank.
Just observing the two clones using the skill expanded Caleb's knowledge of how skills could be utilised.
After cultivating in the space for 30 hours, Caleb had already attained a beginner level in the Thunder Strike skill. He knew that to fully utilise this skill, he would need to reach the Disciple Rank in faith cultivation. Nonetheless, that didn't deter him from progressing in his comprehension of the skill. He also realised that using lightning to temper his cells proved more efficient than the combination of stretching and the 6 Stances. Recognizing this as an opportunity to train his body, Caleb was determined not to miss out. He understood that he would have to suppress his breakthrough in body cultivation until he completed this stage.
For the remainder of the year, Caleb's life took on a new rhythm, marked by simplicity and purpose. Every waking moment was dedicated to the relentless pursuit of mastery in the 6 Divine Spear Art, alongside his trusted instructors. Training became his singular focus, driving him forward with unwavering commitment.
Caleb's selfless act of sharing resources with Asher had a profound effect on the young boy. Overwhelmed by remorse for his past actions, Asher approached Caleb with a sincere apology, expressing his desire to forge a path of camaraderie and unity. The two, once divided by misunderstandings and animosity, now found solace in the prospect of standing shoulder to shoulder, their futures intertwined.
Similarly, Tobias, upon witnessing Caleb's unwavering strength and untapped potential, was forced to confront his own limitations and ego. The realisation struck him with newfound clarity, Caleb, his fellow clan mate, embodied the true essence of power and resilience. Filled with guilt and torn by his past transgressions, Tobias knew it was time to shed his ego and awaken to the possibilities that lay before him.
With a deep sense of remorse and a desire for redemption, Tobias approached Caleb, seeking to make amends. In a profound display of sincerity and commitment, he proposed a brotherly oath, declaring Caleb as his sworn brother. The significance of this gesture was not lost on Caleb, who accepted the oath with grace and understanding. He harboured no ill will towards Tobias or Asher, choosing instead to embrace their newfound unity and shared purpose.
The end of the year marked the conclusion of the training camp. The twelve-year-old children had transformed physically, each becoming a master of their respective weapons. They no longer resembled the childish individuals they were two years ago. The latest rankings placed Caleb, Alex, and Osmos at Rank 0, with Lumina as the current Rank 1. Tobias had climbed to Rank 5, and Asher held the current Rank 10.
"Gather round! This is the culmination of the training camp. Members of your families are already arriving in Silvermoon City as we speak," announced the Third Captain. "The past two years have presented you with numerous challenges, and I hope you can see the fruits of your labour in your remarkable improvement. The next event will introduce you to what a real battle looks like and will also reveal our true enemy. Each of you will enter the array we have set up, called the Titan Killing Array. Inside, you will have to fight using everything you have learned during the training camp. Your goal is to destroy the enemy and survive. You will be fighting with your lives on the line."
As the gravity of the situation settled over the crowd, the Third Captain's voice resonated with solemnity. "Now, let me enlighten you about the nature of your adversaries. The enemies you will face are none other than demons. They come in the form of demonic beasts and demonised humans, their twisted forms harbouring dark and malevolent powers. However, fear not, for the strength of these foes will not surpass your own rank in body or faith cultivation. Nevertheless, I must stress that underestimating them would be a grave mistake. Despite their ranks being similar to yours, demons possess a formidable presence and possess skills that demand respect."
The words hung in the air, causing a ripple of anticipation and caution to sweep through the gathered trainees. The Third Captain's warning carried weight, reminding them that even though the demonic adversaries shared comparable ranks, they were a force to be reckoned with. The scouts from various esteemed academies would be present, their watchful eyes assessing each participant's performance. It was a moment to showcase their abilities, to push beyond their limits and leave a lasting impression.
The trainees exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of determination and nervousness. They understood the significance of this battle, the opportunity to prove themselves and etch their names into the annals of martial prowess. The weight of expectation bore down upon them, fueling their desire to excel.
With a steady gaze, the Third Captain continued, his voice resolute. "I urge each and every one of you to summon your utmost strength, tap into the depths of your training, and unleash your potential. Let your skills and dedication shine bright, for this is not just a test of combat prowess but also a chance to reveal the essence of your character. Show the scouts the indomitable spirit that resides within you, and let your performance be a testament to your unwavering resolve."
The trainees nodded a fire kindling within their eyes. They understood the challenge that lay ahead, the opportunity to prove their worth not only to themselves but also to those who held the power to shape their futures. The weight of responsibility settled upon their shoulders, but they were ready to bear it.
As the Third Captain's words echoed in their minds, the trainees steeled their hearts, their determination igniting a fervour within. "Thank you very much for teaching us!" the children shouted at the top of their voices.
Each child made their way to the array and entered cultivation. Caleb's body was bathed in a glow, and in the next moment, he was transported to a vast white world.
Various weapons were presented all around him, including sabres, axes, swords, and spears.
Caleb focused on the spear, specifically an iron spear with an 8-foot shaft and an 8-inch spearhead, weighing a total of 100kg. In an instant, a black iron long spear appeared in his hand.
In front of Caleb, a dozen phantom shades materialised, each exuding an eerie presence. These spectral figures consisted of demonised martial artists and ferocious beasts, their forms twisted and corrupted. The majority of them possessed formidable strength, ranging from the Marrow Tempering stage of the Mortal Rank to the Unity stage. However, despite their intimidating appearances and power, one notable absence among them stood out—the lack of a faith cultivator above the Believer Rank.
As Caleb faced this formidable array of opponents, his heart raced with excitement and caution. The sight of these phantom shades sent a shiver down his spine, but it also ignited a fierce determination within him. He knew that this was a test of his skills, a challenge he had to overcome to prove his worth.
Taking a deep breath, Caleb steadied himself and assessed the situation. The phantom shades moved with calculated precision, their eyes gleaming with malice. Each step they took seemed to reverberate with dark energy, causing the air around them to grow heavy.
With a firm grip on his spear, Caleb prepared for the imminent clash.
To Caleb, these opponents were nothing at all. He had improved significantly since becoming a Rank 0 member in the camp. He was one step away from breaking through to the Human Rank in body cultivation, and his faith cultivation had caught up with his peers. With the help of the dense faith energy released by the crystal ball, he had broken through to the Disciple rank. In Disciple Rank, a cultivator would compress faith energy into liquid inside the inner space. Due to the density of the faith energy produced by the crystal ball, Caleb's faith energy had already started liquefying while he was at the Believer Rank. However, the size of his inner space meant it would take a while before it could be filled with liquid faith energy.
Caleb steadied his feet, took his stance, and held the spear horizontally in his right hand, pressing his elbow tight against the end of the spear.